As the textile industry navigates volatile markets, geopolitical pressure and shifting demand, innovation is emerging as a central lever for competitiveness. In this conversation, Sabine Scharrer describes how Techtextil functions as a global meeting point where new materials, AI-driven processes and sustainable solutions are translated into industrial applications. From digital production tools to bio-based performance materials, the 2026 edition reflects a sector moving from concept to implementation across multiple industries.
Techtextil positions itself as a leading platform for technical textiles and nonwovens. What defines the vision for the 2026 edition, and how does it respond to the current state of the global textile industry?
– Techtextil is the central meeting point for the international textile industry, which is particularly important given current challenges such as volatile markets, geopolitical tensions and shifting demand. At the same time, demand for technical textiles continues to grow, with forecasts indicating steady expansion. In this context, Techtextil acts as an innovation hub where companies find solutions, partners and knowledge to navigate transformation.
Innovation is described as a key driver in times of economic uncertainty. How do you see exhibitors translating research and new technologies into commercially viable solutions at Techtextil 2026?
– Techtextil brings together research, industry and application, creating an environment where ideas can evolve into market-ready solutions. The Innovation Awards highlight how developments in AI, materials and sustainable production are already being applied in sectors such as medical and automotive. Innovation is not theoretical, it is directly linked to new business opportunities and industrial use cases.
Artificial intelligence and digitalisation are reshaping development and production. Where will visitors most clearly see these shifts reflected across the fairgrounds?
– AI and digitalisation are key themes throughout the fair. Exhibitors present applications ranging from intelligent fault detection to smart textiles and material optimisation. The Innovation Awards include a dedicated AI category, and the Techtextil and Texprocess forums feature experts presenting real-world applications, from AI-assisted monitoring to end-to-end digital workflows.
The Innovation Awards highlight market-ready solutions rather than concepts. What distinguishes the 2026 award nominees?
– We see a strong increase in submissions and a high level of international participation, reflecting the growing momentum of textile innovation. The awards demonstrate how solutions are moving from concept to implementation, with a clear focus on industrial relevance and scalability.
Sustainability is often discussed at a conceptual level. How does Techtextil ensure that new materials and circular solutions move into industrial processes?
– Through the Econogy programme, we highlight companies offering sustainable and market-ready solutions. Visitors can identify relevant suppliers, attend expert talks and join guided tours that connect them directly with exhibitors. We also introduce Nature Performance, focusing on bio-based and recyclable materials with functional properties, where demand is increasing rapidly.
Techtextil runs alongside Texprocess. How does this strengthen the value for exhibitors and visitors?
– By bringing together the full value chain, from fibres to processing, we create clear synergies. The new hall layout strengthens this further by placing related segments closer together. This enables visitors to explore both materials and the technologies required to process them, all in one place, which facilitates faster decision-making and new partnerships.
The textile value chain is becoming more data-driven. How will automation and AI influence competitiveness over the next five years?
– AI, digital processes and connected systems are becoming decisive for competitiveness. Companies that invest in these technologies can increase flexibility, productivity and efficiency. At Techtextil, visitors gain an overview of the solutions that will shape future investments.
Looking beyond 2026, what structural shifts will define the next phase of transformation in technical textiles?
– We see rapid progress in high-performance natural materials, which will be a key area going forward. More broadly, innovation is expanding the range of applications for technical textiles across industries. New materials, treatments and processes continue to open up new markets, and Techtextil aims to be the platform where these developments are presented.
